No permit for repeat Umrah during Ramadan, say Saudi authorities
Initiative seeks to alleviate traffic as demand for minor pilgrimage reaches its highest point
Saudi Arabia has stated that performing Umrah more than once during Ramadan is not allowed under an initiative to ease overcrowding during the holy month.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in Saudi Arabia emphasized that individuals should only perform one Umrah during the holy month to help manage the crowds at the Grand Mosque in Mecca, the holiest site in Islam.
The ministry’s decision is aimed at easing congestion, providing equal opportunities for all to participate in Umrah, and ensuring effective crowd control during this busy period.
Nusuk, a Saudi government platform for electronic Umrah procedures, will display an error message if someone tries to obtain a permit for a second Umrah, explaining that repeating the minor pilgrimage during Ramadan is not permitted to allow others the chance to perform it.
During Ramadan, Muslims from both within and outside Saudi Arabia flock to the Grand Mosque to perform Umrah and offer prayers.
To accommodate the anticipated surge in visitors, Saudi authorities have implemented various measures to facilitate a smooth and comfortable experience for worshippers.
Specific areas within the mosque, such as the circumambulation courtyard and ground floor, have been designated for Umrah pilgrims.
Additionally, certain gates of the mosque have been assigned for the entry and exit of pilgrims to prevent overcrowding.
In recent times, Saudi Arabia has introduced several amenities for foreign Muslims wishing to perform Umrah in the country. Individuals holding different types of entry visas, including personal, visit, and tourism visas, are permitted to perform Umrah and visit Al Rawda Al Sharifa, the location of the Prophet Mohammad’s tomb at the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina, after scheduling an e-appointment.
Furthermore, the Umrah visa duration has been extended from 30 days to 90 days to accommodate a longer stay for pilgrims.
Source: Newsroom
